Price , 40 Cents 


HELPS 


\ ' 



D HINTS 


v ! / 




° HALLOWEEN ° 


^ I V. B^ 

/ \ f ^ Laura Rountree Sau7h 




MARCH BROTHERS, Publishers 

208, 210, 212 WRIGHT AVENUE, LEBANON, OHIO 













\ 







Helps and Hints 

for 

Hallowe’en 


By 

Laura Rountree Smith 

1 | 



MARCH BROTHERS, Publishers 
208, 210, 212 Wright Ave., Lebanon, Ohio 


TMci ® 0 

M'^n 


COPYRIGHT, 1920, By 
MARCH BROTHERS 


© Cl A 599626 

OCT 




UM 3 a,/ €><d, mo- 


Contents 


Introduction 


page 
... 5 


Party Suggestions: 

Nut-Crack Night . 

Hallowe’en Stunts: 

A Shadow Play. 

The Black Cat Stunt. 

A Pumpkin Climbing Game. 

Exercises : 

Hallowe’en Acrostic . 

Take Care, Tables are Turned!. 

Drills : 

Clown Drill and Song. 

Autumn Leaf Drill. 

Cat-Tail Drill . 

Muff Drill . 

Dialogs and Plays: 

The Hallowe’en Ghosts. 

On Hallowe’en Night. 

Jack Frost’s Surprise. 

An Historical Hallowe’en. 

The Witch’s Dream. 

A Hallowe’en Carnival and Wax-Work Show 

The Play of Pomona. 

Hallowe’en Puppet Play. 


. 7 


11 

13 

14 


15 

16 


.18 

.20 

.22 

.24 


26 

29 

35 

39 

45 

50 

55 

61 




3 






















. 





NOTE 

SEND FOR OUR COMPLETE 
CATALOG IN WHICH WILL BE 
FOUND ALL THE ACCESSORIES 
NEEDED IN CARRYING OUT THE 
IDEAS GIVEN IN THIS BOOK. 





4 


March Brothers, Publishers 

208, 210, 212 Wright Ave., Lebanon, Ohio 








Hist! be still! ’tis Hallowe’en, 

When fairies troop across the green! 

On Hallowe’en when elves and witches are abroad, 
we find it the custom over all the world-to build bon¬ 
fires, to keep off evil spirits; and this is the night of 
all nights to entertain friends with stunts similar to 
those performed two hundred years ago. On this 
night fortunes are told, games are played, and if it 
so happens that your birthday falls on this night, you 
may even be able to hold converse with fairies—so 
goes the ancient superstition! 

So, careful be on Hallowe’en, 

Whenever you come out; 

So, careful be on Hallowe’en, 

The witches are about! 

Hallowe’en had its origin in the old Druid festival. 
The Druids kept fires burning all the year in honor 
of the sun-god. On the last night of October, they 
met at the altars where their fires were burning, put 
them out with much pomp and ceremony, and again 
relighted them. They took embers from the new fires, 
returned home and kindled fires on their own hearths. 

Superstition had it, that a home where one of these 

5 


6 


INTRODUCTION 


fires burned constantly, throughout the year, was pro¬ 
tected from all evil. Later on, any fire kept evil 
spirits away. While each country still has its own 
witches, fairies and ghosts, they all agree the night 
of October 31st is a great time for celebrations. 

This little book will be found useful in school, 
church and home, in planning celebrations for 
Hallowe’en. 

The very air is full of magic, so, 

LET’S WRITE AN INVITATION HEARTY, 

ON HALLOWE’EN NIGHT, TO A NUT-CRACK PARTY. 


Party Suggestions 


Nut-Crack Night 

[In the northern part of England, Hallowe’en' in 
still called Nut-Crack Night.] 

For a Nut-Crack Night Party, write invitations on 
a pumpkin-shaped booklet, cut double, with face of 
Jack-o’-Lantern painted outside; inside write: 

On Nut-Crack Night you’ll meet your fate, 

Please come at eight, do not be late; 

What mysteries are to be seen, 

You will not know ’til Hallowe’en. 

Decorate your rooms with yellow and black tissue 
paper streamers, and hang from the ceiling by 
threads, cats, owls, bats and witches cut from black 
paper. Pinned on the curtains and screens they give 
a wierd effect. Light the rooms with Jack-o’-Lanterns 
or electric candles. 

The usual nut-cracking, floating walnut shells in 
tubs, throwing apple paring three times over head 
and at last on the floor, to show initials of name of 
future husband, may be indulged in. Have sets of 
letters of the alphabet in a basket, allow guest 
to take a handful and arrange name of lad or lass 
they will marry. 

Walnut shells tied with ribbon will contain for¬ 
tunes, or they may be attached to strings concealed 
in a paper pudding. Each guest draws a string for 
a fortune at the end. 

Other fortunes may be obtained at a post office, 
received in the form of a letter, postal, package or 
paper. 



8 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


To pay for the mail, require each guest to do some 
stunt, he must then undo his paper or whatever he 
receives, and reveal his fortune to the rest. 

A palmist, astrologer or gipsy may also give for¬ 
tunes. 

Some of the fortunes will read: 

1 . 

There is magic in your smile, 

Use it every other mile. 

2 . 

You’d better write a note to-night 
On paper blue, or pink or white. 

3. 

When you meet a certain lass, 

You should never let her pass. 

4. 

When you’re looking in brown eyes, 

You will get a great surprise. 

5. 

On a journey you will go, 

In a day, a week, or so. 

6 . 

You’ll receive a charming letter. 

It will leave you feeling better. 

7. 

You may think your fortune funny, 

But you’re going to get some money. 

8 . 

Your fortune is a good one, very, 

Go search now in the dictionary. 

9. 

Back of the sofa pillow see, 

A roll of good things wait for thee. 

10 . 

Some eyes are hazel, some are blue, 

A pleasant fortune waits for you. 

Some stunts suggested are: 

1 . 

Tell a story about a ghost, 

Be sure you don’t alarm your host. 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWEEN 


9 


2 . 

Backward walk around the room. 

You’ll walk into something soon. 

3. 

Kiss the shadow if you dare, 

Of the black cat on the stair. 

4. 

With paper and scissors form the habit. 

To cut a very cunning rabbit. 

5. 

Whistle a tune or sing a song, 

Don’t keep the audience waiting long. 

6 . 

Perform a dance or whistle very 
Like a wild bird, or canary. 

Hide nuts about the room, allow the guest three 
minutes to search, and the one with the most, obtains 
a prize. 

Hide animal crackers also, give each guest a folded 
paper on which is written such a verse as: 

“Soon you’ll hear the lion roar, 

You never met the like before.” 

He must search for the animal-cracker lion; if he 
finds any other animal he must leave it undisturbed 
for the right party to find. Jingles about the animals 
may readily be prepared by the hostess. A few are 
suggested: 

The elephant’s gait is slow and steady, 

You see his trunk is always ready. 

The friendly cow is often seen, 

On this night of Hallowe’en. 

The tiger is often in a rage, 

You’d better put him in a cage. 

You may come from shores remote, 

But you don’t want to be the goat. 


10 HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 

Pass out cards with the questions and give guest a 
certain time to complete; those who have correct lists 
are presented with bags of peanuts. 

The first part of this nut you drink, 

Stop a minute, better think—Cocoanut. 

Humpty Dumpty had a fall, 

He sat so high on a big stone—Walnut. 

If you name a color found in eyes, 

The answer brings you a surprise—Hazelnut. 

You like to spread it thick on bread, 

You drop it on that side it’s said—Butternut. 

On all the mighty oak trees grow 
A nut whose name you surely know—Acorn. 

Other little jingles can readily be made up like 
the above, naming such nuts as peanut, pecan, phiL- 
bert, etc. 


Hallowe’en Stunts 


A Shadow Play for Hallowe’en 

A person standing out of view, recites the following 
verses as pictures appear. The pictures may he cut 
from dark tag board and lowered from above or 
shifted in from the side, or real people may pose back 
of the sheet if desired. To make a screen, have a 
sheet stretched between a doorway, back of which a 
bright light is placed. Have the other room dark, 
in which the audience is assembled. The performers 
in posing between the light and the sheet make the 
shadows. 

1 . 

Suppose at night, on Hallowe’en, 

The Witch appears upon the screen— 

Tell me, would anybody scream? 

[Witch appears.] 

2 . 

Suppose the Owl, who’s very wise, 

Should wink and blink his great round eyes, 

Would he take you by surprise? 

[Owl cut from cardboard with eyes cut out so that 
light shims through.] 

3. 

Suppose the Cat grew larger by half; 

I wonder would it make you laugh. 

So you would lean upon a staff? 

[Cat cut from cardboard. Move same nearer light 
to produce enlarging effect.] 

4. 

Suppose Jack-o’-Lantern spoke to you. 

And in accents crisp and new, 

Said, “Ho, ho, ho, I’ve come for you!” 

[Jack-o’-Lantern cut from cardboard with eyes, nose 
and mouth cut out so that light shines through.] 

n 



12 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


0 . 

Suppose the Brownie’s beckoning hand, 
Lured you out to Fairyland, 

1Jis language would you understand? 


[Have a hand extended back of screen in the act 
of beckoning.} 


6 . 


A Ghost you see, scary as can he, 
He eats superstitions regularly, 

He’s looking for you, looking for me. 

[Ghost appears.] 

7. 

Throw the apple paring round, 

Gently three times, on the ground, 

My lover’s initials I have found. 

[A girl throws paring.] 


8 . 

Mirror, mirror, tell me true, 

On Hallowe’en what can I do, 

If you reflect a face that’s new? 


[A girl ivith mirror, someone looking over her 
shoulder.] 


9. 


Oh, fortune cake, make no mistake, 
Before the party is over; 

Of your sweetness* I’ll partake, 

My true love to discover. 


[A boy with an enormous cake.] 


10 . 

On this palm-leaf fan, T see 
A maiden smiling merrily, 

On Hallowe’en she smiles at me. 

[A boy looking at large palm-leaf fan.] 

11 . 

Druid of the long ago, 

Leaning on your staff you ^o. 

Will your fire burn a yeai >r so? 

[A boy in bent position, leai ing on a cane.] 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


13 


12 . 

Ho, ho, little hoy, run, oh, run! 

Ho, ho, on Hallowe’en have your fun. 

IIo, ho, ho, ho, our play is done. 

[Little boys with real Jack-o 9 -Lanterns, run back of 
sheet, then come out in front and bow.] 


The Black Cat Stunt 

A student in cap and gown, stands across from a 
table where a very quiet, gentle cat is held still by 
a child. Children in a row at the back of stage hold 
up books, as though studying. The student recites: 

THE STUFFED CAT 

Who stuffed that cat? No one spoke in school, 

For ’twas study time and against the rule. 

The children in their seats might stare, 

The visitor, little did he care. 

What a very ridiculous nose! 

What an exceedingly awkward pose! 

Such extremely pointed ears 

Have never belonged to a cat, my dears. 

And those big, round, shining eyes 
Never belonged to a cat that size! 

If a real cat on the table sat, 

He’d be inclined to laugh at that! 

Who stuffed that cat? Was it a clown? 

Who always jokes in striped gown? 

Tho’ I’m not old or very wise, 

For a cat you’ve made an odd disguise. 

When anything you want to do, 

It’s well to learn the thing, ’tis true; 

Excuse me, if I laugh at that, 

Your very funny, old STUFFED CAT! 

[The child holding the cat pokes it, the cat rises 
and ivalks about, the children laugh , while the student 
shows his surprise , and walks off in an indignant 
manner.] 



14 HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 

A Pumpkin Climbing Game 

The children are shown a room with half a dozen 
pumpkins on the floor. They practice walking about, 
stepping over them. One is blindfolded. The pump¬ 
kins are quickly removed and the rest laugh at his 
efforts to step over them. Apples or candles in can¬ 
dlesticks may be used, instead of pumpkins. This 
game makes much laughter. 


Exercises 


A Hallowe’en Acrostic 

[For ten children, either hoys or girls.] 

A witch comes on the stage with a basket full of 
letters to spell the word ‘ ‘ Hallowe ’en. ’ ’ She pins 
one on each child, and they dance about and stand 
in groups; as she calls for the letters, one by one 
they arrange themselves in a line, come forward, hold 
up letter and recite. 


All: 


H.: 


All: 

A.; 


All : 

L.: 


All: 


L,: 


All: 


Witches, witches, leaping ditches, 
Everywhere are seen; 

Witches, witches, with their switches, 
Late on Hallowe'en. 

Hold your head up high, for passing by 
The cat and owl do often cry. 

Meow, meow! Who, who! 

Autumn time brings jolly fun, 

From Jack-o’-Lantern we won’t run. 

He has terrible eyes, oh, my! oh, my! 

Look for charm, and look for token, 
Witches’ spell will then be broken. 

Four-leaf clover, four-leaf clover. 

Look for it the wide world over. 

Late at night upon the post 
You may see a solemn ghost. 

Whist! be still, a ghost! a ghost! 


15 



16 HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE EN 

0.: Once a year you may discover, 

In a mirror, friend or lover! 

All: 

Mirror, mirror, smile at me. 

W.: 

Well for you to say your prayers, 

If you’re all alone upstairs. 

All : , 

The wind may call for me and you, 
000 — 000 - 000 ! 

E.: 

Every year, I always fear, 

When the goblins are drawing near. 

All : 

They may be afraid of you—■ 

Just bow and say, “How—do—you do?* 

E.: 

Echo hear the ghost’s shrill cry, 

“It’s Hallowe’en—I’m passing by.” 

All: 

A ghostly cry, oh, my! 

N.: 

Now we all will say good night, 

I hope, we gave no one a fright! 

Witch : 

Oh, no, my dears, you’re most polite, 

It just takes me to scare you quite; 

The witches often sigh, ’tis true, 
Good-bye, good-bye, good-bye to you! 

[All march off.] 


Take Care, Tables Are Turned! 

[The children enter, stand in line and recite. After 
each recitation is given, the object they mention is - 
seen, shown over a screen at the back of stage. The 
Witch, Owl, etc., may wear masks , the Bat may be 
made of paper and swung from above.] 

All : 

We all have frolicked on Hallowe’en. 

We hear strange sounds, what can they mean? 





HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


17 


First : 

What if my Jack-o’-Lanter n came to life? 

I made his mouth so big and wide, 

And put a candle bright inside! 

All: 

What if he came to life? 

Second : 

What if my Witches made of black paper, 

On Hallowe’en should cut up a caper? 

All: 

What if they came to life? 

Third : 

What if the Owl I stuffed this year 
Should very suddenly appear, 

And cry, “Tu-who, are you all here?” 

All: 

What if he came to life? 

Fourth : 

What of the black cat, so sleek and fat, 

I cut and mounted upon a mat? 

All : 

What if he came to life? 

Fifth : 

Suppose my Bat of paper there, 

Should go a-sailing through the air! 

All: 

What if he came to life? 

Sixth : 

I made a Brownie, a jolly fellow, 

In a jacket black and yellow. 

All: 

What if he came to life? 

[The objects mentioned, now come forward from 
behind the screen, and scare the first children, who 
run off the stage. They shake fingers at the audience 
and recite ] : 

Be very careful what you make, 

Or you may find ’tis a mistake 
To cut such cunning people out: 

They’ll come to life bevond a doubt, 

On Hallowe’en, on Hallowe’en! 

Hurrah! hurrah! for Hallowe’en! 


Drills 


Clown Drill and Song 

[The drill is given by ten boys dressed as clowns. 
March in, hands on the shoulders of the one in 
front, keep in step.. Form line at front of stage, and 
sing.] 

Tune: “Yankee Doodle.” 

1 . 

We are the Clowns of Hallowe’en, 

We’ll tell you what we’ll do, Sir; 

The same old stunts you’ve always seen, 

For we know nothing new, Sir! 

Chorus. 

Ha, ha, ha, we’ll keep in tune, 

Tho’ where we are going, 

We can’t tell you very soon, 

We’ve no way of knowing. 

2 . 

We are the Clowns of Hallowe’en, 

And though we have no money, 

We’ll caper lightly o’er the green, 

To make you think we’re funny. 

Chorus: [Clap hands.] 

3. 

[The music is played, they look wildly at each other 
as though forgetting the words, but come out strong 
on the chorus, waving caps.] 

4. 

What if our words should now give out, 

Who’ll help us with our singing? 

We will surprise you without doubt, 

A little bell we’re ringing. 

Chorus: [7 ling a tea bell.] 

IS 




HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 19 

[March right and left, meet in two lines, stand sides 
to audience, hold up hands, end couple passes through; 
the next couple, and the next pass through, until all 
have passed and taken place again in lines. Form a 
circle, any one is chosen to skip in and out between 
them, when he returns to place another is chosen to 
skip in and out, etc. All go to center and back, every 
other one to center and back, all again to center, wave 
caps and shout “hurrah.” Form in lines right and 
left, sides to audience, play ball, throwing it back and 
forth from line to line for anyone to catch. March 
in lines, hands on hips. Skip in couples, all go out, 
re-enter, line up and recite:] 

First : 

I'am going to bed, yes, going to bed, 

And pull the covers high over my head, 

Late on Hallowe'en. 

All: 

What’s the use of going to bed— 

Is there any rhyme or reason? 

Second : 

What’s the use of going to bed? 

You’ll have to get up in season! 

[First runs off.] 

Third : 

I’ve gotten dressed in my very best, 

So witches and goblins will be impressed, 

Late on Hallowe’en. 

All: 

What’s the use of getting dressed? 

Is there any rhyme or reason? 

Fourth : 

What’s the use of getting dressed? 

You’ll have to undress next season! 

[Third runs off.] 

Fifth : 

I’m going to eat some pumpkin pies, 

And leave one, the witches to surprise, 

Late on Hallowe’en. 


20 HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 

All: 

What's the use of eating pies? 

Is there any rhyme or reason? 

Sixth : 

What’s the use of eating pies? 

You’ll be hungry again next season. 

[Fifth runs off.] 

Seventh : 

I’m going to wash my face so well, 

And hide away—where, I shan’t tell, 

Late on Hallowe’en. 

ALL: 

What’s the use to wash your face? 

Is there any rhyme or reason? 

Eighth : 

What’s the use to wash your face? 

You’ll get soiled again next season! 

[Seventh runs out.] 

Ninth : 

I see no use in anything at all. 

So for an exit I will call. 

Late on Hallowe’en. 

ALL: 

What’s the use of anything? 1 

Is there any rhyme or reason? 

[All tip-toe out hut the tenth.] 

Tenth : 

What’s the use of anything? 

Will you tell me, please, next season? 

[Looks about wildly for response , sees he is alone 
on the stage , runs off.] 


Autumn Leaf Drill 

To be given by any number of children of different 
ages and sizes; the whole school may take part if 
desired. 

At the back of the stage stretch wire netting the 
entire way across, and cover completely with pretty 
sprays of autumn leaves, willow and oak. The chil¬ 
dren may wear white costumes with artificial leaves 
red, yellow, brown and green upon them. 



HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 21 

[They enter in couples, hold hands high, bow to 
audience, whirl round, tivo and two; each takes right 
hand of partner, whirls round, bows to partner; girls 
hold out skirts in both hands, skip round partner, 
arms on hips; repeat, one arm on hip, one over head, 
join hands, skip again in couples; all pause, sing.] 
Tune: 1 ‘Welcome Sweet Springtime’’—Rubinstein. 

WELCOME TO AUTUMN 

Welcome to autumn, her trumpeters call, 

Crimson and yellow, autumn leaves fall; 

Welcome to autumn we all gather here, 

Singing a farewell song. 

Winter is coming, and long will we dream, 

While fairy snowflakes fall o’er the flowers; 

Winter is coming, he’s frozen each stream, 

Still we have happy hours. 

Dancing away while the echoes are ringing, 

Softly the breezes are joining our singing; 

Come, dance away, for bright autumn is here. 

It is, as you know, the last ball of the year. 

Welcome to autumn, and heed our gay song, 

Gaylv come dancing out on the green; 

Welcome to autumn, we all wish thee long, 

Welcome to HALLOWE’EN! 

[A Witch enters at the side and taps once as she 
recites first verse, twice for the next, and so on.] 

Witch : 

Down the leaves all flutter, oh! 

Hallowe’en has come, you know. 

[All kneel.] 

Witch : 

They rise again and flutter ’round, 

Tripping lightly o’er the ground. 

[All rise and whirl in couples.] 

Witch*. 

Wave about, but softly creep, 

Soon the autumn leaves will sleep. 

[All wave hands to audience.] 

Witch : 

Listen, listen, don’t you hear 
Jack Frost’s footsteps coming near? 

[All hold right hand to ear, listening.] 


22 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


Witch : 

What will you do, when the witch is seen. 

Late at night on Hallowe’en? 

[All cover faces with hands.] 

Witch : 

Music’s charms, music’s charms, 

Will always silence all alarms. 

[The Witch disappears, they all join hands, skip 
forward and back, repeat song, skip off in couples.] 
The drill can be lengthened by introducing any 
familiar folk dances and songs. 


Cat-tail Drill 

An even number of girls and boys enter with real 
or made cat-tails, tied with yellow and black streamers 
of tissue paper. They enter from right and left. 

[The boys form a circle at the right, girls form a 
circle at the left, hold cat-tails high; all circle toward 
the right, all circle toward the left, go to center and 
back in each circle; each circle forms a line, stand 
with sides to audience, face each other, march for¬ 
ward and back twice; march forward, pass between 
and back to places, repeat and stay on opposite sides; 
march again, meet, hold cat-tails touching, end cou¬ 
ples pass under the next, and next, until all have 
passed under and returned to place in lines. March 
now right and left, line up in two lines, girls in front, 
boys behind, drill to four counts of music. Hold cat¬ 
tails vertically out in right hand to right, left, up, 
down, swing to and fro; repeat, hold in left hand , 
describe a circle holding in left hand, in right hand. 
Make the circle toward left, right, and out in front. 
Hold horizontally with both hands out in front, under 
chins, above heads, raise and lower in this position. 
Hold cat-tails under chins, recite] : 

Hark! hark! 

The night is dark, 

The witches are coming to town. 

On Hallowe’en, 

They all are seen, 

And each in a brand-new gown. 



HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLO WE EN 


23 


[Girls lower cat-tails, boys raise cat-tails, recite ]: 

Boys: 

Cat-tails growing by the streams. 

Elves and fairies they have seen. 

Girls: 

At this hour let us dream, 

Late at night on Hallowe’en. 

[They all sing, swaying cat-tails to and fro.] 

Tune: ‘ ‘ Lightly Row. ’’ 


1 . 

Lullaby, lullaby, 

Swinging low and swinging high; 
Lullaby, lullaby, 

Late on Hallowe’en. 

Nod your little drowsy head, 
Play you’re fast asleep in bed; 
Lullaby, lullaby, 

Late on Hallowe’en. 

[Mark time with feet.] 

2 . 


Lullaby, lullaby, 

On our tiptoes we will creep; 
Lullaby, lullaby, 

While the witches sleep. 

In October it is well, 

To escape the fairies’ spell; 
Lullaby, lullaby, 

Quiet we will keep. 


[Boys march to right and in a circle, girls to left 
in a circle.] 

3 . 


Lullaby, lullaby, 

There is nothing to alarm; 
Lullaby, lullaby, 

Cat-tails bring no harm. 
Jack-o’-Lantern’s ghost is seen, 
Everywhere on Hallowe’en; 
Lullaby, lullaby, 

Wave your magic charm. 

[March off stage.] 


24 HELPS AND HINTS FOIi HALLOWE’EN 

Muff Drill 

Nine girls enter with muffs, made by covering 
a muff shape of tag board with white tissue paper; 
on one side of the muff is pasted an owl’s head, on 
the other a letter to spell the word “Hallowe’en. ’ 

[En ter girls from, left stage, in groups of three at 
a time. Each girl holds muff in right hand. First 
group marches to front, holds muffs up, down, right, 
left, to four counts; marches to hack of stage and 
takes position facing audience. The second group of 
three now enters, goes through the same exercise and 
takes place in front of the first group. The last 
group enters, and goes through the same exercise as 
the. others and takes place in front of others. All 
now march to front of stage keeping positions. Hold 
muffs up, down, right, left, wave to and fro, hack 
line holds muffs up, second line holds muffs up, front 
line holds muffs up. Now put hoth hands in muffs, 
wave up, down, right, left, to and fro. All hold muffs 
over faces, lower them and recite ] : 

See the muffs on Hallowe’en, 

Rather out of season; 

Why at this hour they are seen, 

We’d rather not tell the reason! 

We hide our hands, ’tis very true, 

And secrets we will keep from you; 

Right foot, left foot, whirl ’round about, 

The Hallowe’en muffs have all come out. 

[Three girls on left side of group and three on 
right side face their respective sides and march across 
stage and return to their places. Center three now 
march around and weave in and out the left and 
right columns and resume position. All form circle 
and march around stage holding muffs high above 
heads, come to front of stage and holding muffs in 
hoth hands so letters are seen, recite ] : 

H. : Hallowe’en, Hallowe’en, 

Witches are seen. 

A.: 

All the fairy folks come out, 

They’ll scare you without any doubt. 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


25 


Look above you, look and see, 

The owls are hooting merrily. 

Learn to be heard, but never seen, 

At this hour on Hallowe en. 

0 .: 

Over the hilltop, comes a shout, 

Jack Frost cries, ‘“Come out, come out!” 

W.: 

Witches and hobgoblins, too, 

Are often on the watch-out for you! 

E.: 

Elves and fairies, Jack-o’-fLanterns, too, 
Are waiting to scare you, it is true. 

E.: 

Every year strange sights are seen, 

Out in the woods on Hallowe’en. 

N.: 

Now the last line we have spoken, 
Witches’ spell is broken, broken. 

[They all sing.] 

Tune: “Blue Bells of Scotland.” 


1 . 

Oh where, and oh where, is our witch on Hallowe’en? 

Oh where, and oh where, is our witch on Hallowe’en? 
She’s gone to scare you all, 

For what reason we can’t tell; 

So we sing you a song, 

And we wish you very well. 

[They continue singing.] 

2 . 

Oh where, and oh where, is the black cat on Hallowe’en? etc. 

3 . 

Oh where, and oh where, is Brownie Boy on Hallowe’en? etc. 

4 . 

Oh where, and oh where, is the wise owl on Hallowe’en? 

[At completion of the fourth verse they quickly 
whirl muffs around to show owl’s head , turn , and skip 
out right and left.] 


Dialogs and Plays 


The Hallowe’en Ghosts 

[A dialog for twenty or more children, all ages. 
Eight wear sheet and pillow-case garments , enter 
from right and left on a darkened stage, make com¬ 
ical gestures, whirl round in couples, line up, recite] : 

We’re the Hallowe’en Ghosts, 

Much like lamp posts; 

We make curious hosts, 

We’re the Hallowe’en Ghosts. 

Hush, hush, hush! 

[One at a time, they tip-toe hack to seats arranged 
at hack of stage.] 

First: 

Oil! who will sing a ghostly song? 

Second : 

Ghostly hours to us belong. 

Third : 

We ought to act in a ghostly way. 

Fourth : 

The Harvest Moon makes it bright as day. 

Fifth : 

We try to speak in a ghostly voice. 

Sixth : 

On Hallowe’en we have no choice. 

Seventh : 

The time is late, the hours advance. 

Eighth : 

We soon will give a ghostly dance! 

ALL: 

To learn to be ghosts in any season. 

Is difficult, do you know the reason? 

First: 

We might learn to groan and also moan! 

[All moan.] 

26 



HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


27 


Second : 

Who’s next to speak? 

Why not learn to shriek? 

[All cry.] 

First: 

I’m the ghost of a song, forgotten long, 

I hum as I join this silent throng; 

A ghost, of course, should properly grieve, 

When he has lost “Sweet Genevieve.” 

[They hum or sing, “Sweet Genevieve.”] 

Second : 

I’m the ghost*of the flowers, for hours and hours 
I’ve watered them with my tears, like showers; 

What if the ghostly flowers should be seen 
Here, late tonight on Hallowe’en? 

[Tiny children enter with hoops of flowers, go 
through short drill and silently vanish.] 

Third : 

I’m the ghost of a dream, strange it may seem, 

I ride up and down on a pale moonbeam; 

The witch with her cat, neither lean nor fat, 

Side by side on a broomstick sat! 

[A witch, cat and broom, cut from paper, are slowly 
lowered from above and withdrawn.] 

Fourth : 

I’m the ghost of a turkey, who once strutted gay, 

And came to his end on Thanksgiving Day! 

All: 

Ha ha; ho, ho; what did he say, 

The turkey—a ghost on Thanksgiving Day! 

[A large picture of a turkey, or one cut from paper, 
should be lowered from above.] 

Fifth : 

I’m the ghost of the leaves, my spirit grieves, 

As my fancy a picture about them weaves; 

They dance and they play in merry October, 

The life of the leaves can never be over! 

[Children wearing dresses covered with autumn 
leaves dance in; six at the right, six at the left; pass 


28 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE EN 


each other several times, form a circle. All go to 
center and back, holding hands high; every other 
one to center and back, every other one in place; 
every other one in center, remain there, form two 
circles, one circle right, one left; march right and 
left, meet in lines; march by twos, fours, sixes; march 
right and left, repeat; one line stands, the other line 
marches around them, weaves in and out between 
them; the line that marched, now remains still while 
the other line marches around them, and iveaves in 
and out between them; form a circle at right and left 
of stage, skip out.] 

Sixth : 

I’m the ghost of a story book you know, 

Left a whole year out under the snow. 

All: 

He left the book in some secret nook, 

Tell us, has it a spooky look? 

[Here a good ghost story may be told.] 

Seventh : 

I can neither retreat nor advance, 

I tell you I’m the ghost of a dance; 

I’m educated, but T regret, 

I can’t remember the minuet. 

[All shake heads.] 

Eighth : 

I’m the ghost of the cat, who for long hours sat, 

Warm by the hearth, on a bright red mat. 

All : 

Meow—Meow—Meow. 

[They now dance two and two and silently whirl 
off; or they may leave their seats one at a time, and 
the last one runs of shrieking.] 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


29 


On Hallowe’en Night 

A Play in Four Scenes 
CHARACTERS 

Six Witches —Either boys or girls. 

Teacher —Larger girl. 

Little Boo-Hoo —Small girl. 

Little Never-Care —Small boy. ’ 

Miss Teaser —Girl. 

Mr. Never-Say-Please— Boy. 

School Children—A ny number. 

Four Owls —Either boys or girls. 

Four Cats—E ither boys or girls. 

Trumpeter —Small boy. 

Columbus —Larger boy. 

Sailors —Any number. 

COSTUMES 

Witches wear long, black capes, pointed black hats 
and carry broomsticks. 

Owls and Cats wear masks. 

The other characters may wear their names on 
their sashes or caps, unless more elaborate costumes 
can be provided. 

No special scenery is needed. 

Scene I 

[In the woods. Witches enter from right and left.] 
[Three recite ] : 

On Hallowe’en night, when the moon is bright, 

And all the world is still; 

On Hallow’en night, when the moon is bright, 

We come tripping o’er the hill. 

[Others recite] : 

On Hallowe’en night, we will scare you quite, 

Tf you mortals will come out; 

On Hallowe’en night, we will scare you quite, 

We’re wise witches without a doubt. 

[They stand in line, tap canes after each recitation.] 


30 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


First: 

One little boy cries when lie goes upstairs. 

Second : 

One little boy will not say his prayers. 

Third : 

One little girl will cry and tease. 

Fourth : 

One little girl # will never say “Please.” 

Fifth : 

Little boys, little girls, we laugh and shout. 

Sixth : 

Ha, ha; ho, ho; the witches are out. 

[All sing.] 

Tune: “Coming Through the Rye.” 

1 . 

If you ever chance to wander. 

Late on Hallowe’en; 

If you ever chance to wander. 

Many sights are seen. 

Witches are so very funny, 

In their cap and gown; 

Just hear our canes go rap-a-tap, 

The witches are in town. 

2 . 

Soon the witches will be dancing, 

Out upon the green; 

Soon the witches will be dancing, 

Late on Hallowe’en. 

With their canes a-rapping, tapping, 

You can hear them shout, 

If they catch a mortal napping, 

He had best look out! 

[They dance two and two, and dance out.] 

Scene II 

[In a schoolroom. A large sign at hack of stage, 
“Kept After School.” Teacher at desk, several chil¬ 
dren in seats.] 

Teacher : 

Late today and late tomorrow, 

Tardiness will bring much sorrow. 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


31 


Little Boo-Hoo : 

I’m always late, what can I do, 

But cry again, Little Boo-Hoo. 

Little Never-Care: 

I’m the little boy who Never Cares, 

I even forget to say my prayers. 

Miss Teaser: 

I’m only known as Little Miss Teaser, 

Nothing ever is known to please her. 

Mr. Never-Say-Please : 

1 am Mr. Never-Say-Please, 

I quite forget kind words like these. 

Teacher: 

To be on time, now is the rule, 

And I have kept you after school; 

But you’d better run home now without doubt, 

’Tis Hallowe’en, the witches are out. 

[The Witches are seen peeping in door or window .] 

Children : 

Ha, ha; ho, ho; we need some switches, 

To keep away the silly witches; 

To be disturbed we do not mean, 

When homeward bound on Hallowe’en. 


Scene III 

[Same as Scene I. Many children are seen hurry¬ 
ing along through the woods with dinner pails, the 
four who were kept after school coming in last, and 
finally left alone on the stage. They sing or recite .] 
Tune: “Lightly Row.” 

1 . 

Autumn time, autumn time, 

All the leaves are falling down; 

Autumn time, autumn time, 

Leaves of red and brown. 

Trip it lightly as you go, 

Hallowe’en has come you know; 

Autumn time, autumn time, 

Witches are in town. 


32 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


2 . 

Hallowe’en, Hallowe’en, 

Comes but once in every year; 

Hallowe’en, Hallowe’en, 

Fairies will appear. 

Little elves in wood and glen, 

Are the little fairy men; 

Hallowe’en, Hallowe’en, 

Spooks are drawing near. 

Owl [behind scenes ] : 

How do you do? How do you do? 

Tu-whit, tu-whoo, tu-whit, to-whoo. 

Children : 

If we were good, yes, very, very good, 

We never would be lost in the woods. 

Cat [behind scenes ] : 

Would you like to get out? 

I could tell you how 

If you learned my language, 

Meow—meow. 

Children : 

Ghostly shadows linger near, 

We are lost it doth appear. 

[Witches come in, circle round the children.] 

Witches : 

Spell of air and spell of water. 

For each little son and daughter; 

Turn them into dolls today, 

Or wooden statues as we say. 

You’ll need some manners it is seen, 

Even now, on Hallowe’en. 

[They lead a boy and a girl right, a boy and a girl 
left, where they stand still as statues while the play 
continues.] 

Witches [rapping] : 

Rap-a-tap, rap-a-tap, 

Take a little winter nap; 

Little Owls, little Cats, where have you been, 

Come, join our revels on Hallowe’en! 

[Enter Cats and Owls.] 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 33 

Dance and play, dance and play. 

Summer days are over; 

Dance away, dance away. 

Last night of October. 

Cats: 

We are the Cats, we bow and sing, 

And we can do most anything. 

OWLS: 

We are the Owls, with eyes so bright, 

We’re always “seein’ things at night.” 

First Cat: 

What’s yonder there? [Points to children .] 

Second Cat: 

Just see him stare! 

Third Cat: 

And here, and here. 

Fourth Cat: 

Some spell, ’tis clear. 

First Owl: 

A paper doll’s worth lots of money. 

Second Owl: 

This one holds a basket, it is funny. 

Third Owl: 

A wooden statue now I see. 

Fourth Owl: 

His dinner pail appeals to me! 

[Cats circle round boy and girl at right, Owls round 
boy and girl at left. The curtain falls.] 

Scene IV 

[Same as Scene ITT. Two boys and two girls still 
remain on stage in the statue-like positions. Three 
ships are next shown on a sheet, and led by a trum¬ 
peter, Columbus and his Sailors enter.] 

Trumpeter : 

Blow, trumpet, blow; blow, trumpet, blow, 

Columbus is a rover; 

Blow, trumpet, blow; blow, trumpet, blow, 

With his discovery over. 

He may not know which way to go, 

Blow, trumpet, blow; blow, trumpet, blow. 


34 HELPS AND HINTS FOB HALLOWEEN 

[Enter Columbus and Sailors; Sailors dance and 
sing.] 

Tune: “Yankee Doodle .’’ 

1. 

We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en, 

We love the water’s motion; 

We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en, 

We make a great commotion. 

Chorus. 

Sing! hurrah for Hallowe’en, 

See Columbus coming; 

Sing! hurrah for Hallowe’en, 

Join us in our humming. 

2 . 

We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en, 

And up the mast we’re going; 

We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en, 

And stormy winds, are blowing. 

3. 

We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en, 

We’ll land and give a party; 

We’re sailors bold on Hallowe’en, 

We give a greeting hearty. 

Sailors : 

In 1492, we made discoveries, it is true, 

Some claim there is nothing ever new 
At midnight on Hallowe’en. 

Columbus : 

Whist! be still! what have we here? 

Some new discoveries it is clear. 

[Columbus goes to boys and girls.] 

Columbus : 

Oh! who will break the magic spell, 

The Witches are about; 

The Owls and Cats now re-appear. 

There’s mischief without doubt! 

[The Witches , Owls and Cats creep in.] 

Owls: 

Be good—remember words like these. 

Go home and do not pout or tease; 

And do remember what you’ve seen 
Late at night on Hallowe’en. 

Or else next year we’ll call for you. 

Tu-whit, tu-whoo, tu-whit, tu-whoo! 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


35 


Cats: 

Be good—and try to be polite, 

As well as learn to read and write; 

For enchanted you have been. 

On this night of Hallowe’en. 

If you want to improve, we’ll tell you how. 

Meow—meow—meow—meow. 

Witches : 

Believe in witches if you choose, 

Just go about and spread the news; 

We’ll try to get you without doubt, 

On Hallowe’en if you are out. 

You’ve felt tonight the Witches’ spell, 

Little mortals, fare-you-well. 

[The Cats, Owls and Witches go out. Columbus 
brings out a large flag, the Sailors circle right and left 
around the children, recite and close with one verse 
of Star Spangled Banner; children come to life and 
join in chorus .] 

Columbus : 

We’ll wave a flag red, white and blue. 

The bonnie banner for me and you; 

Come, form a ring, we’ll dance and sing, 

’Twill break the spell of everything. 

[All wave flags as they sing chorus, and all who 
have taken part in the play, re-enter, line up in the 
back, and join in the chorus.] 


Jack Frost’s Surprise 

A Hallowe’en Play in One Act 


CHARACTERS 


Jack Frost 
Witch 

Jack-be-Nimble 

Jack-in-the-.Pulpit 

Jack-in-the-Box 


Jack Sprat 
Jack-o ’-Lantern 
Jack Tar 
Jack Horner 
Six Sailor Boys 



36 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


COSTUMES 

Jack Frost should wear a white costume with a belt 
cut in points, from which little bells are hung, also a 
pointed cap with a bell sewed on the end of it. 

The Jacks may wear appropriate costumes or have 
their names printed on their belts or caps. Jack-in- 
the-Box should wear a large pasteboard box upon his 
person and, of course, must pop up from the box 
occasionally. 

Witch should wear black dress and cape and high 
hat. May carry a broomstick. 

Sailors may wear regular sailor suits, or white suits 
and sailor hats. 

[Enter Jack Frost from left, Witch from right.] 

Jack Frost: 

I am Jack Frost, Jolly Jack Frost, . 

Through the woods today my way I lost; 

This self-same thing I oft discover, 

In October the summer’s over. 

Though elves come tripping o’er the green, 

I’m the only Jack upon the scene. 

Witch : 

11a, ha, ha, on Hallowe’en, 

Ghosts and elves are often seen; 

And many a Jack trips o’er the green, 

Ha, ha, ha, on Hallowe’en! 

Jack Frost : 

Though the wrong road we have taken, 

In that surely you’re mistaken; 

Even summers charm is lost, 

But I’m the only Jack —Jack Frost. 

[Witch taps with her cane, enter Jack-be-Nimble 
with candlestick. 

Jack-be-Nimble : 

I’m Jack-be-Nimble, I have to be quick 
When I jump over my candlestick; 

I’m most as nimble as a rabbit, 

For jumping soon becomes a habit. 

[Jack Frost shakes hands with Jack-be-Nimble, and 
the Witch taps with her cane each time, as a new Jack 
enters.] 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


37 


Jack-in-the-Pulpit : 

I am Jack-in-the-Pulpit, very shy, 

Scarce glancing at the passerby; 

If truths on Hallowe’en you’d teach, 

You’d find me very glad to preach. 

Jack-in-the-Box : 

I’m Jack-in-the-Box, I know no reason. 

For feeling sad in any season; 

I like to pop up on Hallowe’en, 

When many a curious sight is seen. 

Jack Sprat: 

I’m Jack Sprat, and tired at that. 

There’s only one story you hear; 

I’m Jack Sprat, eating lean, not fat. 

At any time of the year. 

Witch : 

Ha, ha, ha, you’re a jolly fellow, 

Come on, now, be a story-teller. 

[Jack Sprat takes his stuffed cat out from, under 
arm.] 

Jack Sprat: 

My Hallowe’en cat, behold her here, 

I like her well though she has but one ear; 

To get a bargain she never will try, 

She went after butter when butter was high! 

[Jack-o ’-Lantern, hoy with lighted lantern, enters 
by door or window.] 

Jack-o ^-Lantern : 

1 peep in the window, or look in the door, 

Jolly Jack-o’-Lanterri, you’ve seen me before; 

I stand on the lamp post, or grin on the gate, 

On Hallowe’en night you dare not be late. 

See my big mouth and shining eyes, 

I’m bound to give you a surprise. 

Jack Tar: 

They say, “Who is this fellow? see how he dances, 
Lightly retreats, and lightly advances”; 

Who else is coming? around him he glances, 

Jolly Jack Tar, the hornpipe he dances! 

[Enter many sailor hoys, dance or jig, line up and 
sing.] 

Tune: “Marching Through Georgia.” 


38 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


MERRY SAILOR LADS 

1 . 

Merry sailor lads are we, 

Upon the sea we go; 

Singing quite new-fangled tunes, 

And songs ,of long ago. 

As we journey on our way 
We sing, “Ye-ho, ye-ho” 

While we are sailing the ocean. 

CHOBUS. 

Away, away, our ship’s a tidy craft, 

Away, away, we never stoop to graft; 

See our tidy vessel now, we man her fore.and aft 
While we are sailing the ocean. 

2 . 

Happy-hearted sailor lads, 

We really know no fear; 

Our home is out upon the sea, 

We’ve sailed for years and years. 

When we see the bonnie flag, 

We always give three cheers 
While we are sailing the ocean. 

[While sailors are singing, Witch goes off stage and 
comes hack with Jack Horner, who sits down at cor¬ 
ner of stage.] 

Sailors [point to Jack Horner in a corner eating pie]: 

Ha, ha, if we linger longer, 

We discover old Jack Horner; 

Ha, ha; ho, ho; the sailors cry, 

We’ll help you eat your Christmas pie. 

Jack Horner: 

You’re very welcome to my pie, 

I’ve sat for years and years; 

According now to history, 

Hallowe’en appears. 

Sailors : 

Take his pie and rid the corner, 

Of this greedy little Jack Horner. 

[The Witch and Jack Frost are in front, the other 
Jacks behind them; the rest of the school may line 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLO WE *EN 39 

up for the chorus , waving banners , on which is writ¬ 
ten the word “Hallowe’en.” They all sing .] 

Tune: “Yankee Doodle.” 

THE SPOOK SONG 

1 . 

Surprises come on Hallowe’en, 

You know ’tis very true, sir; 

We’ll trip it lightly o’er the green, 

That’s what the Spooks all do, sir! 

Chorus. 

Sing! hurrah for Hallowe’en, 

Hear our gentle humming; 

Sing! hurrah for Hallowe’en, 

Soon the S'pooks are coming. 

2 . 

The sights and sounds of Hallowe’en, 

Are nothing very new, sir; 

We’ll never tell you what we’ve seen, 

Our song is very true, sir! 

[This may end the program , or the stage may be 
quickly darkened and the Hallowe f en Ghosts may be 
given.] 


An Historical Hallowe’en 

An interesting play in which customs and super¬ 
stitions of the various countries represented are men¬ 
tioned. Costumes will add much to the program. 
Spirit of the Year may wear long, white robe. Owl 
and Cat may wear masks. In connection with the 
play several national anthems might be sung. 

[Have a panel with curtain arranged at back of 
stage, so that same can be drawn open and closed 
very easily. The characters must be ready to appear 
one after the other. The Owl and Cat may draw out 
their yells so as to afford more time for the change 
behind curtain. The Spirit of the Year announces 
each character as curtain is drawn open. Enter 
Spirit of the Year.] 



40 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


Spirit of the Year: 

Once again ’tis Hallowe’en, 

Strange figures show upon the screen; 

Hallowe’en in every nation, 

Still is kept o’er all creation. 

Some superstitions I hold ’tis true, 

I am the Spirit of the Year, 

I bow to you. 

[Enter Owl from left.] 

Owl: 

Who—Who—Who—o—o ? 

A very wise owl on Hallowe’en 
Is often heard, but seldom seen. 

[JEnter Cat from right.] 

Cat: 

Meow—Meow—Meow—ow. 

I am a cat that belongs to history. 

In my heart is many a mystery. 

Spirit of the Year: 

Who comes here? 

A voice I hear. 

Owl: 

Who—Who—Who—o—o ? 

Cat : 

Meow—Meow—Meow—ow. 

[The curtain is drawn and the first character is 
shown. Characters may pose as tableaux before re¬ 
citing.] 

[ Egyptian, girl dressed in flowing white robe and 
head-dress, seated at spinning wheel.] 

Egypt : 

Osiris, the sun god was killed today, 

His brother Siton will hold full sway; 

The god of darkness, you understand, 

In winter days shall rule our land. 

At the turn of the year your work begin, 

Spin— -spin—spin. 

OWL: 

Who—Who—Who—o—o ? 

Cat: 

Meow—Meow—Meow—ow. 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 41 

[Englishman, boy dressed in hunter’s breeches and 
cap, red coat, carries short ivhip.] 

England : 

In England the hounds a-hunting go, 

The Spectre Hunter leads you know; 

You can hear their hoofs, though they’re only seen, 

Late at night on Hallowe’en. 

Leave some berries for the “Little People,” 

Or the Goblins you’ll see upon a steeple! 

OWL: 

Who—Who—Who—o—o ? 

Cat: 

Meow—Meow—Meow—ow. 

[ Welshman , boy wearing long, dark cloak and high- 
pointed, black hat.] 

South Wales: 

The Druid’s altar still is here, 

With fires lighted once a year; 

Many stones about you see, 

A part of witch’s mystery. 

If you are caught this night alone. 

You may also be turned to stone. 

Owl : 

Who—Who—Who—o—o ? 

Cat: 

Meow—Meow—Meow—ow. 

South Wales: 

In a fire, each threw a stone, 

With a mark to call his own; 

If in the morning ’twas not found, 

In twelve months he’d be under ground. 

OWL: 

Who—Who—Who—o—o ? 

Cat: 

Meow—Meow—Meow—ow. 

[Japanese, girls dressed in regular Japanese cos¬ 
tumes. Several may pose in this tableaux. After 
speaking, they may come forward and give a Japanese 
Fan or Parasol Drill. Go off stage.] 


42 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


Japan : 

The ghosts come back in fair Japan, 

Some with parasol, some with fan; 

Keep your lanterns burning bright, 

Send out your boat, speed on tonight. 

To bring back spirits though they’ll not stay, 

To greet us on mid-summer day; 

Blow out your rush-lights, one at a time, 

Repeating for each a simple rhyme. 

OWL: 

Who—Who—Who—o—o ? 

Cat: 

Meow—Meow—Meow—ow. 

[American, girl dressed as Goddess of Liberty. 
Carries horseshoe.] 

America : 

I lean ^a little to ghiosts and witches, 

Hobgoblins too, who all use switches! 

But this will keep one from all harm, 

See, I carry a horse-shoe charm! 

OWL: 

Who—Who—Who—o—o ? 

Cat: 

It may be another name for pluck, 

But a horse shoe always brings good luck. 

[Irish, girl dressed in green skirt with bodice, white 
blouse and apron . Have an older person speak. 
Smaller folks come on stage and give a fairy dance 
and song.] 

Ireland : 

Here I come with fairies many, 

If you’re dull you can’t see any; 

Gnomes, earth spirits by my side, 

Close to earth delight to hide. 

The ‘'Little People,” very small, 

The “Good People,” who are very tall; 

The “Gods” and “Leprechauns” ’tis true, 

Go “rat-a-tat-tat,” they make a shoe. 

[All sing.] 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWEEN 


43 


Tune: ‘ ‘ Lightly Row . 91 

Dance away, dance away, 

Vanish "ere the break of day; 

Dance away, dance aw'ay, 

Late on Hallowe’en. 

Fairy folk all wish you well, 

As they cast on you a spell; 

Dance away, dance away, 

Late on Hallowe’en. 

[Fairies run off stage.] 

Owl: 

Who—Who—Who—o—o ? 

Cat: 

Meow—Meow—Meow—ow. 

[ Druids, boys wearing priest-like robes, pass at the 
back of stage, and recite alone or in couples.] 

Druids : 

As of old, each Druid passes, 

Worshipping the sun; 

While fairy music ’mid the grasses. 

Greets them one by one. 

Put out your fires on Hallowe’en, 

Relight them now so they are seen; 

Carry embers to each home, 

Relight your fires, no harm may come. 

After the Druids reappear, 

No harm will come to you this year. 

Owl: 

Who—Who—Who—o—o ? 

Cat: 

Meow—Meow—Meow—ow. 

[Scotchman, six boys in kilts, recite following 
verses and then may dance the Highland Fling and 
sing (( Blue Bells of Scotland.”] 

Scotland—First Boy : 

Hist! be still! what do I see? 

A spirit in each walnut tree. 

Second Boy : 

Ha, ha, if you want to hide, 

Away from "the wild huntsman, ride. 

Third Boy : 

Nuts and apples for a treat, 

All the year you find so sweet. 


44 HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 

Fourth Boy: 

The bonfires we will light in turn, 

While the wicked witches bum. 

Fifth Boy : 

Pile cabbage stalks up by your door, 

The fairies have brought the stork before. 

Sixth Boy: 

At cross-roads don’t linger, lad or lass, 

’Tis there the Hallowe’en fairies pass. 

[They give a little drill in imitation of a torch¬ 
light procession, using electric torches or electric 
candles. Recite as they march.\ 

First Boy: 

Ileigho, for the fairies on Hallowe’en, 

They scamper away across the green. 

All: 

They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you, 

Oh scamper away whatever you do! 

Second Boy : 

Hist! be still on Hallowe’en, 

The torch procession now is seen. 

All: 

They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you, 

Oh scamper away whatever you do! 

Third Boy : 

On Hallowe’en night if you bum a light. 

You’ll frighten away each elf and sprite. 

All: 

They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you, 

Oh scamper away whatever you do! 

Fourth Boy: 

On Hallowe’en night a light is a charm, 

’Twill surely keep you from all harm. 

Ali. : 

They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you, 

Oh scamper away whatever you do! 

Fifth Boy : 

Be very careful how you talk, 

Better learn to walk the chalk. 

All : 

They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you, 

Oh scamper away whatever you do! 


HELPS-AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 45 

Sixth Boy: 

Over the hills and far away, 

Let’s scamper ’till the break of day. 

All: 

They’re looking for me, they’re looking for you, 

Oh scamper away whatever you do! 

[Scamper off right and left. All who have taken 
part return on stage, America carries large flag. Sing 
one verse of <( Star Spangled Banner” to close.\ 

CURTAIN 


The Witch’s Dream 

Characters and Costumes 

Fear —Wearing black cloak, carries banner with the 
word “Fear” printed on it. 

Witch —Regular witch costume, carries megaphone. 
Owl —Owl mask and gray cape. 

Cat —Cat mask and black cape. 

Rain —Raincoat and cap, may carry umbrella. 

Moon —Yellow suit, moon face. 

Jack-o’-Lantern —Carries large Jack-o’-Lantern. 
Courage —Gay dress, carries banner with the word 
“Courage ” printed on it. 

Four Boys—W ith brooms. 

[The lights are dim on the stage , the Witch sits at 
right of stage and raps with her cane. Enter Fear.] 
Fear: 

Ha, ha, ha, it’s very queer, 

That you don’t recognize me here; 

I traVel with you every year 
Old Witch, I introduce myself, 

I, am FEAR! 

Witch : 

Hallowe’en is drawing near, 

I never felt one-half so queer; 

Strange shapes and phantoms now appear, 

Hark! whit noises do I hear? 

[Enter Wind.] 



46 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


Wind: 

OOO—000—000, I blow and blow, 

I am the boisterous Wind you know; 

Ha, ha, I’ll scare you without doubt, 

Where is the Witch? come out, come out. 

Ha, ha, I never make a mistake, 

We’re due to burn you at the stake! 

Witch : 

Oome Cat, come Owl, protect me do. 

If what the old Wind says is true; 

I’ll stay inside where I can’t be seen. 

On this night of Hallowe’en. 

[Enter Owl.] 

Owl: 

Tu-whit, tu-whoo, we’ll stay by you. 

Faithful mascots tried and true. 

[Enter Cat.] 

Cat: 

A Witch once on a broomstick sat. 

Says the merry old Cat, what think you of that? 
With her Cat she went riding up on high. 

She said, “I’ll be back again by and by. 

Where went the Cat? I lost track, 

But she never came back, never came back! 

OWL: 

She never came back, never came back! 

[The Witch shrieks. Enter Rain.] 

Rain: 

There’s a goblin in the Bain, 

Hear him tapping on the pane; 

Rapping, tapping, don’t go napping. 

While he’s tapping on the pane. 

Rapping, tapping, rapping, tapping. 

Hear the goblin’s odd refrain; 

Rapping, tapping, rapping, tapping, 

On the window pane! 

OWL: 

We’ll not go napping, while he’s tapping, 
Rapping, tapping, on the window panel 

[Witch shrieks . Enter Moon.] 


HELPS and. HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


47 


Moon : 

Latp'Yn^r th l? l0 T throu gh the clouds will peep, 
nlght ’ g00d P eo P le sle ep; 

T 7° u . a11 the ^ght3 I’ve seen, * 

Is the Witch within? I s the Witch within? 

Witch : 


There must be enchantment in the Moon, 

Tirst it rains, then it clears too soon; 

Pull in the shutter, and pull down the shade, 

Un Hallowe en night I’m surely afraid. 

[Fear skips round waving her wand. Enter hoys 
with brooms.] 


Boys: 

Where’s the Witch? We’re not mistaken, 
’Tis the hour to waken, waken; 

Perhaps already she’s o’ertaken 
By sprites on Hallowe’en! 


First Boy: 

Sweep the cobwebs from the sky, 

I’ll bring the Witch back by and by! 

Second Boy : 

Ride her on a creaking broom, 

I’ll bring her swiftly to her doom! 


Third Boy: 

In her own kettle let her bubble, 
Cook her, it will save much trouble! 


Fourth Boy : 

Strike her with a broom three times three! 
She’s a wicked Witch we all agree! 


ALL: 

One, two, sweep the floor [with motions], 

Clean it neatly as before; 

Two, three, shoulder arms [on shoulders], 

W T hen we hark for war’s alarms. 

Three, four, with arms extended [extend brooms], 

What is broken can be mended; 

So we could drill the live-long night, 

But vanish along with elf and sprite. 

[They sweep floor, look around fearfully; one ai d 
time leave, the last shrieks and runs off.] 



48 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


Witch : 

Shadows creeping, softly peeping, 

Who comes stealing while we’re sleeping? 

J’m tired now, my watch I’m keeping, 

Late on Hallowe’en! 

Jack-o’-Lantern [peeping in]. 

Witch : 

What great big eyes he has! 

[Enter Jack-o 9 -Lantern.] 

Jack-o ’-Lantern : 

I shine by candle-light. 

OWL: 

What a great big nose he has! 

Jack-oVLantern : 

Make remarks more polite. 

Cat: 

What a great big mouth he has! 

Jack-o’-Lantern : 

Yes, that’s to scare you, quite. [Runs in."] 

[Js Fear goes out, Courage enters.] 

Courage: 

Harken to Courage, blithely she dances, 

Now she retreats, now she advances; 

Your fears seem so funny, 

For Courage is sunny, 

Her laughter is worth a whole pile of money! 

[The lights come on full, exit all hut Witch, Cat 
and Owl.] 

Witch : 

Oh! Oh! I had a fearful dream! 

OWL: 

Tu-whit, tu-whoo, 

Is that really true? 

CAT: 

Teach me to dream, T don’t know how, 

I’m only a stupid cat—meow*! 

Witch : 

I’ve made resolutions four and twenty. 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


49 


Owl: 

Half that number would be a-plenty. 

Witch : 

I’ll not scare good folks any more. 

Cat: 

We once heard you say that before. 

Witch : 

Ha, ha, I’ll never again act mean. 

OWL: 

You’d laugh if you saw this on the screen! 

CAT: 

Oh give me a platter, I’d lick it clean! 

ALL: 

Hurrah! hurrah! for Hallowe’en. 

[All the characters who took part, and the entire 
school, if desired, may now line up at the hack and 
sing.] 

Tune: “Twinkle Little Star.” 

1 . 

Late at night on Hallowe’en, 

Many funny sights are seen; 

Better mind your A, B, C’s, 

As the Witches often tease. 

2 . 

If they get their kettles out, 

They will boil you without doubt; 

Walk the chalk and be polite, 

If you do not want a fright. 

3 . 

What’s the use to go to bed, 

Witches often times have said; 

’Tis a habit, but we call 
Good-night, good-night, to one and all. 


50 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


A Hallowe’en Carnival and Wax-work 
Show 

CHARACTERS 

Folly —An older boy. 

Owl —A small boy. 

Cat —A small boy. 

Witch —An older girl. 

Stilt-Walkers —Any number boys and girls. 

Mad March Hare —A small boy. 

Jack-o '-Lantern —A small boy. 

Poppy Ladies —Four girls. 

Chinaman —A boy. 

Eskimo —A boy. 

Japanese —A girl. 

Holland —A girl. 

Indian —A boy. 

Negro —A boy. 

Silhouettes of bats, black cats and owls are hung 
by threads from the ceiling. The characters are 
grouped about the stage. They wear fancy costumes 
and masks, and pose as statues. Boys on stilts, stand¬ 
ing at right and left, help give a comical appearance; 
and children dressed in costumes of all nations, carry¬ 
ing national flags may be in the groups. Folly wears 
the most comical costume of all, he is attired as a 
court jester, Half the costume black, half yellow, 
wears a cap and bells, carries a noisy rattle. 

Scene I 

f The first song is sung back of the scenes. Have 
stage darkened, only Jack-o*-Lanterns as foot-lights.] 

Tune: “The Campbells Are Coming.” 

On Hallowe’en Night, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, 

The Witches and Brownies, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho; 

The Owls and the Cats, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, 

On Hallowe’en Night, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho. 

[Lights come on.] 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


51 


Folly : 

I am Folly, always jolly, 

Though I’m seldom seen; 

I am Folly, always jolly. 

Late on Hallowe’en. 

And if I am not mistaken, 

All these statutes waken, waken! 

Ha, ha, ha, hear Folly’s laughter, 

Fun and frolic follow after. 

[Folly touches the characters one at a time, with 
wand or rattle, they rise stiffly, come to life and 
recite .] 

Owl: 

I am the Owl, who—who—who? 

On Hallowe’en I follow you. 

Cat: 

I am the Witch’s Cat, oft’ seen 
Late at night on Hallowe’en. 

Witch : 

Oh Folly, you’re a cunning fellow, 

In your costume black and yellow; 

Why not give a wax-work show, 

To entertain before we go? 

Folly : 

I’ll wake the funny old stilt-walkers, 

Perhaps they’ll serve as the end talkers. 

Stilt-Walkers : 

We’re rather tall, wherever seen, 

But we’ll enjoy this Hallowe’en. 

Mad March Hare: 

I’m the Mad March Hare, I do declare, 

Not popular now, anywhere; 

And if you give a wax-work show, 

I’m very sure I want to go. 

Jack-o’-Lantern : 

Jack-o’-Lantern, jolly rover, 

Happy is, in glad October. 

Witch : 

Ha, ha. Folly, I’ll cast a spell, 

Incantations I know well; 

Mv Poppy Ladies, I will call, 

They’ll wrap in slumber one and all. 


52 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


Folly : 

My silver whistle, I will blow, 

The Poppy Ladies come, ho, ho. 

[Enter Poppy Ladies in crepe paper costumes , go 
through any pretty little dance and sing.] 

Tune: “Coming Through the Rye.” 

Poppy Ladies in October 
Sing a lullaby; 

And sweet dreams you will discover. 

Sandman hovers nigh. 

Dreamland fairies in October 
Form a magic ring, 

Hallowe’en brings many a rover, 

Poppy Ladies sing. 

[They go out, the Witch casts a spell indicating 
certain characters, who will take part in the wax- 
work show in the next scene.] 

Witch : 

Ho, ho, come broomstick, cast a spell. 

On Hallowe’en, when all is well; 

All turn to wax, while sleeping, sleeping, 

Close your eyes, let’s have no peeping. 

You shall whistle, and you shall sing, 

You shall recite of fall or spring; 

You’ll be a wild rider in the show, 

You’ll dance a solo before we go. 

The boys and girls from many a nation, 

Will appear in their own creation; 

And only Folly can break the spell, 

Ha, ha, ho, ho, we wish you well. 


Scene II 

The characters now are wax-like figures, very still, 
sitting, in a row. As Folly touches one with a wand 
he rises and goes through the stunt suggested by the 
Witches spell in the last scene. One dances, one sings 
a nonsense song, one may give a dumb-bell or Indian- 
club drill, one skates, one comes forward on a Kiddy- 
cart to represent the wild rider. Bring in all talent 
possible to make this part of the program funny. 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


53 


A Clown Dance would be appropriate. The children 
of various nations recite. 

Chinaman • 

I am Ching-Lo, Chinaman, 

Also known as funny man. 

Eskimo : 

T am Eskimo, and if you please, 

I enter doors on hands and knees. 

Japanese : 

Across the sea to fair Japan, 

I carry parasol and fan. 

Holland : 

Clump, clump, go .my wooden shoes, 

As I travel to carry news. 

Indian : 

Indian in Indian summer weather. 

Carries war-paint, carries feathers. 

Negro: 

Plunkety-plunk goes the old banjo, 

Down in the cotton field you know. 

[All taking attitude of playing banjo, say ] : 

Plunkety-plunk is a merry tune, 

Plunkety-plunk, ’neath the harvest moon; 
Plunkety-plunk with songs between. 

We’ll entertain on Hallowe’en. 

[Girls enter with mirrors, turn heads to look in 
mirror held over shoulder and Folly peeps in each, 
so he is seen.] 

All: 

Mirror, mirror, what do you see? 

On Hallowe’en reveal to me. 

First : 

Mirror, mirror, that I hold, 

Many a fortune by you is told. 

Folly, Folly, Folly. 

Second : 

Mirror, mirror, what do you mean, 

The hour strikes, ’tis Hallowe’en. 

Folly, Folly, Folly. 


54 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


Third : 

Mirror, mirror, tell me true, 

If I meet my love, what shall I do? 

Folly, Folly, Folly. 

Fourth : 

Mirror, mirror, in my hand, 

Your charm I can not understand. 

Folly, Folly, Folly. 

Folly: 

Merry lads and lassies too, 

Folly makes much fun for you; 

Can wax-work figures sing I wonder? 

Will they whisper? will they blunder? 

Can they keep a tune? I’ll see, 

I’ll wind them with my little key. 

[He winds them up one at a time, they rise, to 
his apparent surprise , dance around, come forward, 
line up and sing.] 

Tune: “Yankee Doodle.’’ 

WAX-WORK SONG 

1 . 

We’re Wax-Work Figures in the show, 

We’re very fond of singing; 

We’re talented as you must know, 

You’ll hear our voices ringing. 

Chorus. 

ITa, ha, ha, we’re wound up well, 

You will soon discover; 

Why we’re singing, we can’t tell. 

In the late October 

[Hum the chorus .] 

2 . 

We’re^ Wax-Work Figures it is true, 

Let’s keep on humming, humming; 

We’ll do our very best for you, 

As Hallowe’en is coming. 

[ Whistle chorus. Hepeat words of chorus and go 
off right and left as stiff figures would,] 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


55 


The Play of Pomona 

Note-— The ancients believed that Pomona, the goddess of 
fruits, attracted many lovers. She was finally won by 
^ crtumnus, the god of the changing year. To win her, 
he had to take on many forms. Offerings were made to 
these gods in Rome at festival time. 

CHARACTERS 

OCiOBER—A tall girl. 

Witch—A tall girl or boy. 

Trumpeter —A small boy. 

Apples —Four girls. 

Pears —Four girls. 

Bananas —Four girls. 

Grapes —Four girls. 

Child—A small boy. 

Pomona —A young lady. 

Suitors —Any number of boys. 

Vertumnus —A young man. 

COSTUME SUGGESTIONS 
While no special costumes are necessary, they will 
add to the program. The fruits especially should be 
made to represent what they speak of, and the Horn 
of Plenty may be made of pasteboard, decorated with 
colored fruits and flowers, or a large waste basket filled 
with fruits would do for this purpose. October will be 
pretty crowned with autumn leaves. There will be 
no difficulty in getting a long, black cape for the 
Witch, and a pointed black hat. She carries a cane 
and raps on the floor when ready to recite. Con¬ 
sult any ancient history for costumes for Pomona 
and her suitors. 

Scene I 

[In the woods.] 

October: 

I am October, my fruits are mellow, 

My autumn leaves are red and yellow; 

I am October, my voice you hear 
On Hallowe’en, the fall of the year. 


56 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


Witch : 

Same old jokes on Hallowe’en, 

Same old pumpkins too are seen; 

October, with your skies so blue, 

Can’t you think lip something new? 

October: 

By my side old Witch please stay, 

And we’ll enact a little play; 

Ppmona, goddess of fruits, I’ll call, 

And she will entertain us all. 

Vertumnus, too, I’ll conjure here, 

The god he is, of. the turning year! 

Witch : 

Ha, ha, the story I remember. 

He comes long before November; 

Though many shapes he takes to woo her, 

Nothing ever seems to do her 
Until he dons a gossip’s shoes, 

For truly, she is fond of news! 

October: 

Her attendants we’ll call without delay, 

For Pomona now is on her way. 

[A Trumpeter appears and blows his horn, each 
time before a fruit or group of fruits enter.] 

Apples : 

Apples rosy, Apples red, 

See us nodding overhead; 

Apples rosy, round and sweet, 

Everywhere are good to eat. 

[Dance around in couples, and line up at back of 
stage.] 

Pears : 

We are Pears, so very shy, 

Scarcely nodding to passersby; 

As we heard Pomona call, 

We’ll do her honor one and all. 

[Dance in a circle, and line up beside Apples.] 

Bananas : 

We’re Bananas, spick and spandy, 

And you always find us handy; 

Pipe Bananas are so sweet, 

You will find us quite a treat. 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 57 

[Bow to partners, circle round each other, and line 
up at back.] 

Grapes: 

Purple Grapes, in early fall, 

We have heard Pomona’s call; 

And we come in late October, 

For the summer hours are over. 

[Join hands, skip forward and back, line up at 
back. Child enters with Horn of Plenty, they circle 
around her, singing.] 

Tune: “Coming Through the Rye.” 

To the woodland we are going 
Late on Hallowe’en, 

We’ve no other way of knowing 
What strange sights are seen; 

But we bring the Horn of Plenty 
At this time of year, 

And a festival we’re keeping, 

For Pomona’s here. 

[Pomona enters, and is seated at right; the fruits 
in turn go to her and bow, and the child offers her 
the Horn of Plenty. Many suitors now come bowing 
to her in turn; they offer her fall fruits and flowers 
and gifts, carrying them in baskets or on trays; the 
Knave of Hearts even comes offering her his tarts, 
and Simple Simon offers her a pie. Last of all 
comes Vertumnus, he is larger and more power fid 
than the rest; he simply offers her an enormous red 
pasteboard heart.] 

Vertumnus : 

Vertumnus, the god of the turning year, 

I come, Pomona, behold me here; 

Offerings are made to me in Rome, 

Will you share my fortunes? Pomona, come. 

[Pomono waves him away with the rest of the 
company, and the curtain falls.] 


58 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


Scene II 

[Witch’s quarters in woods. The Witch and Ver- 
tumnus, seated at a table, are talkvng over their cups 
of tea.] 

Witch : 

I’m the Witch of Hallowe’en, 

Many curious sights I’ve seen. 

I’m also a gipsy as you see, 

I’ll tell your fortune with leaves of tea. 

You must wear disguise, you understand, 

If you would win Pomona’s hand. 

Go as a Ploughman, talk of spring, 

Roses to her cheeks you’ll bring. 

As a Fisherman, talk of summer time, 

Charm her with your song and rhyme. 

A Reaper has enchanting ways 
When he sings of autumn days. 

As Old Woman Winter in ice and snow, 

You’ll interest her, Im sure it’s so. 

When you have enchanted her, then arise, 

You can safely throw off your last disguise. 

Yertumnus : 

Such fortunes in tea leaves we’ve seen, 

I’ll cry. “Hurrah for Hallowe’en; 

Hurrah! hurrah! for your time and trouble, 

May your kettle always boil and bubble. 

Witch : 

Yertumnus, now if you are wise, 

You’ll not forget to wear disguise. 

Vertumnus : 

In disguise I’ll journey, you understand, 

To seek again Pomona’s hand. 


Scene III 

[Pomona’s home in the woods. Pomona seated by 
spinning wheel. A knock is heard, enter 'Vertumnus 
as ploughman.] 

Vertumnus: Fair Pomona, I can not help but 
sing today; I come to tell you of all the beauties of 
spring. If you will come with me to the fields you 
will see new life returning everywhere. In every 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 59 

little blade of grass upspringing, in every mellow 
bird note, there is nature’s call. See, I have brought 
you the first violets. 

Pomona: Very beautiful is your breath of spring, 
and the message the violets bring me, but I would 
far rather stay here by my spinning wheel, for even 
now nights and mornings are chilly. I care not for 
your wild, sweet, spring music. 

[V ertumnus goes out. While Pomona spins, he 
returns as a fisherman.] 

V ERTUMNUS: 

I am a Fisherman, sin<*e you ask it, 

I made a catch that will fill your basket. 

How we all love summer, summer, 

She’s a fashionable new-comer. 

Now, sweet summer, with her roses, 

Happiness for all proposes. 

Pomona : I care not for your wonderful catch of 
fish, or for your summer roses. I have had bouquets 
before. Go back to your stream, young fisherman, 
perhaps the fish will listen to your clumsy verses. 

[Tie goes out, returns as reaper, with a scythe or 
cycle.] 

Vertumnus: What wonderful seasons we have, 
Pomona, this is the harvest time. What a wealth of 
flowers, fruits and nuts meet our gaze, and the cheer¬ 
ful bonfires are lighted everywhere. Soon Hallowe’en 
will be here. I almost imagined I saw a Witch as I 
entered. [ The Witch peeps over the screen, waving 
hand to audience.] I dream I hear October’s laugh¬ 
ter as she shakes the trees, from which the leaves leap 
and dance to the last ball of the season. [October 
peepes over screen and laughs.] Will you come with 
me, Pomona? 

[Pomona does some real acting while this last reci¬ 
tation is given, she appears almost to yield, but re¬ 
plies. ] 


60 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE EN 


Pomona: As I am the goddess of fruits, you 
almost persuade me. I hear the far-off hunter’s horn, 
I feel the spell of Hallowe’en, but no—I am not 
easily won. 

[Vertumnus now goes out and re-enters as old 
woman winter, he wears a long cape with hood.] 

Vertumnus : Have you heard the news? You 
musit surely know. They say, and they say, and they 
say. Oh, yes, I look like old winter with my frosty 
fingers, but see, I bring Christmas and sleighing and 
good times and gossip. Ha, ha! Oh, yes, I pay quite 
a fortune for shoes, for I travel so far to carry the 
news. 

Witch [over the screen]: 

Gossip now is going to win her, 

Keep at it whatever you do; 

Gossip, like a hardened sinner, 

Stands you in good stead ’tis true. 

Gossip about whatever you choose, 

Drop a word here and there to carry the news; 

Never mind who listens over the screen, 

I’m the merry old Witch of Hallowe’en. 

[Pomona rises from stool and yields to Vertum¬ 
nus. Vertumnus drops his disguise and takes 
Pomona by the hand. They march forward and bow. 
The Witch enters at right, October at left.] 

Witch : 

The goddess of fruits to merry October 
Calls, “Good-bye, the summer is over.” 

October: 

Vertumnus, the god of the turning year, 

Hath won her now, it doth appear. 

Pomona: 

What our kind friends say is true, 

So we call, “Good-bye,” to you. 

Vertumnus : 

Come, let the fall fruits and flowers, 

Return for a few more happy hours. 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


61 


[All who have taken part re-enter, heralded by 
trumpeter, line up, sing.] 

Tune: 11 Battle Hymn. ’ ’ 

1 . 

Oh autumn time is coming, 

You can hear her trumpets call; 

While the fruits and nuts are falling, 

There is plenty for us all. 

We go o’er hill and valley 
Making bonfires in the fall, 

In happy harvest time. 

Chorus. 

Sing three cheers for glad October, 

Sing three cheers for summer’s over; 

Jack Frost comes, a merry rover, 

In happy harvest time. 

2 . 

Oh autumn time we love you 
With your fields of ripened wheat; 

And so bountiful the harvest 
All the glories we repeat. 

And at the hour of sunset 
You can hear our marching feet, 

In happy harvest time. % 

Chorus. 

CURTAIN OR MARCH OFF 


Hallowe’en Puppet Play 

[l 1 he Puppets are shown over a screen, and a Show¬ 
man comes out in front to recite the prologue.] 

CHARACTERS 

Showman Brownie 

Witch Knowledge 

Cat Punch and Judy 

Jack-o '-Lantern 

Time: Hallowe’en. 

Place: High on the hill. 



62 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


Showman : 

Little Puppets now are seen, 

Late at night on Hallowe’en, 

Sometimes thrown upon a screen. 

Sometimes from wires suspended high, 
You’ll see the Puppets passing by, 
Perhaps you’ll hear a wooden sigh. 

The Witch and Jack-o’-Lantern, too, 

A wooden speech will make for you, 
They’ll dance as any Puppets do. 

The Cat and Brownie, too, are here, 

’Tis Hallowe’en, the hour draws near. 
And even Knowledge doth appear. 

Now, if you like such plays as these, 

Just come inside and take your ease, 

For Puppets always try to please. 

Witch : 

Ha, ha, ha, on Hallowe’en, 

Ghosts and goblins, too, are seen. 

Cat : 

I’m the Hallowe’en Cat, I stalk about, 

I’ll scare some people, without doubt. 

Witch : 

What’s the meaning of Hallowe’en, 

Oh, Kit-Cat, with the eyes of green? 

Cat: 

Meow, meow, I do not know, 

Hallowe’en Witch, let me go! 

[Exit the Cat.] 

Jack-o '-Lantern : 

I’m Jack-o’-Lantern, bright ’tis said, 
Though I am only a pumpkin head. 

Witch : 

Oh, Jack-o’-Lantern, with eyes so bright, 
What does Hallowe’en mean tonight? 

Jack-o '-Lantern : 

Oh, oh, oh, please let me go! 

Really Witch, I do not know. 

[Exit the Jack-o’-Lantern.] 

Brownie : 

I’m a Brownie, o’er the green, 

I dance and sing on Hallowe’en. 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE’EN 


63 


Witch : 

You’re the cutest Brownie I have seen, 
What is the meaning of Hallowe’en? 

Brownie : 

I turn a somersault and go, 

For really, witch, I do not know. 

[Exit Brownie.] 

Witch a kettle ] : 

Bubble, bubble, always bubble, 

Kettle brings us toil and trouble; 

None have I met, none have I seen, 

Who knows the meaning of Hallowe’en. 

[Exit Witch.] 

Punch : 

I am Punch, odd things I’ve seen, 

Ha, ha, ho, ho, ’tis Hallowe’en. 

JUDY: 

Let’s hide right here, below the screen, 
And ask the Witch what she may mean. 

[They hide.] 

Witch : 

Bubble, bubble, work and toil, 

In the kettle let me boil 

The Cat, Jack-o’-Lantern, and Brownie, too, 

Unless the answer they bring is true, 

I weave my spell where none have seen, 
Who knows the meaning of Hallowe’en? 

Cat : 

I am the Cat of mystery, 

Hallowe’en belongs to history. 

Jack-o '-Lantern : 

The Druids built fires all the year, 

In honor of the sun-god, I hear. 

Brownie : 

On the 31st of October each year, 

To the altars they gather near; 

’Twas then they put the fires out, 

And kindled fresh ones, without doubt. 

Cat: 

Here are the Druids, I see them come. 

And they are carrrying embers home. 


G4 


HELPS AND HINTS FOR HALLOWE EN 


Jack-o'-Lantern : 

So goblins now skip o’er the green, 

Every year on Hallowe’en. 

[Witch goes out screaming as Knowledge enters.] 

Knowledge : 

I am Knowledge. I always frighten ghosts and goblins 
away, but I like you, Cat, and Jack-o’-Lantern, and 
Brownie. You are all jolly, and fairies, too, have 
their places to brighten up this old world. Let us 
dance on the green this October night. 

Cat: 

Ha, ha, ha, the summer’s over, 

Hallowe’en comes in gay October. 

Jack-o'-Lantern : 

Ha, ha, ha, the secret’s out, 

What Hallowe’en is all about. 

Brownie : 

Trip it lightly o’er the green, 

On this night of Hallowe’en. 

Knowledge : 

Hallowe’en comes with pleasant weather, 

We’ll have fun and frolic all together. 

[Exit all, while Punch and Judy return.] 

Punch : 

How do little Puppets know 
That Hallowe’en is here? 

JUDY: 

The Witches come, the Witches go. 

When Knowledge doth appear. 

Punch : 

Hist! Be still! On Hallowe’en 
The Puppets are about! 

JUDY: 

Jolly Jack-o’-Lantern, too, is seen, 

He’ll scare you, without doubt. 

Punch and Judy: 

Punch and Judy are so merry 
Any time of year, 

They’re often seen on Hallowe’en. 

Just call, and they’ll appear. 

[Directions for making Puppets and their manipulation 
will be found in ‘ Puppet Plays for Special Days,” price, 40 
cents. Order from the publishers of this book.]* 


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